Astrune Academy is a nostalgic trip back to the golden era of JRPGs, evoking the charm and simplicity of classic titles like the early Final Fantasy series. With its pixelated graphics and turn-based combat system, the game initially captivates players who long for the days of 16-bit adventures. However, very early on, it becomes evident that Astrune Academy’s blend of old and new isn’t quite as harmonious as one might hope.
The game’s graphics are a delightful homage to the classics, featuring detailed sprites and vibrant, hand-drawn environments. The overworld map and various locales within the game have a distinctly retro aesthetic, which will undoubtedly appeal to fans of old-school JRPGs. However, despite the visual appeal, the world design itself feels uninspired. The areas are often bland and repetitive, failing to create a memorable sense of place.
In terms of gameplay, Astrune Academy sticks closely to the JRPG formula, featuring an overworld map, random enemy encounters, and turn-based combat. The battle system is straightforward with skills and item usage during battle, with both player party and enemies being placed on a grid to help the player choose more effective skills based on area of damage. Unfortunately, the simplicity extends to the world itself, which feels lifeless and lacking in engaging content. Which the developers clearly knew as they added a auto battle button for each fight.
The game’s integration of mobile-style mechanics is even more apparent. Features like random equipment forging, reviving characters with rare currency, and the inclusion of a 3x EXP bonus as DLC disrupt the balance and immersion of the game. These elements feel intrusive and out of place in a title that otherwise tries so hard to emulate the classics.
Astrune Academy’s soundtrack starts strong, with tunes that perfectly capture the essence of a traditional JRPG. Unfortunately, the music quickly becomes repetitive. The lack of variety is glaring, and the seemingly random switches to combat music mid walk through town only exacerbate the issue. What begins as a nostalgic nod to classic gaming soon turns into an annoyance, as the repetitive tracks loop endlessly, grating on the player’s ears.
The narrative of Astrune Academy begins on a promising note. The story follows a group of students in their first year at the titular academy, a refreshing departure from the usual “save the world” trope that so many JRPGs start with. All of the main characters are actually very distinct with not just playing different roles in combat but also adding to the dialog which although not the most imaginative, it’s by far no the worst I’ve seen. The initial chapters focus on the students’ growth, friendships, and smaller-scale adventures, providing a charming and relatable experience. However, the plot eventually falls into familiar clichés and lacks the depth and intrigue needed to sustain interest through the game’s entirety.
Astrune Academy had the potential to be a charming throwback to the JRPGs of yesteryear, but it falters due to uninspired world design, a repetitive soundtrack, and the intrusive integration of mobile game mechanics. The story’s initial promise and the classic gameplay are overshadowed by these issues, leaving players with a sense of what could have been. While it may still hold some appeal for die-hard fans of the genre, Astrune Academy ultimately serves as a reminder that some things are best left in the past.
The game is available on all platforms from 14 June 2024
